Brian Lieberman

Hi all! I am a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology PsyD
program at William James College. I am originally from New Jersey, earned my bachelors
degree in psychology from The University of Florida, Gainesville and
later earned my masters degree in urban education and English as a
Second Language at Jersey City University. Before deciding to apply to
William James College, I taught Spanish and ESL at both the middle school and high school
levels. I made the decision to seek a PsyD because I was sure that I
wanted to solely focus my training in the clinical arena rather than in
research.

Upon beginning my research on PsyD programs I noticed William James College’s concentration in Latino Mental Health
and immediately knew that the program was a perfect match for me. I
wanted to continue using my Spanish language skills in combination with
my studies and eventual practice in psychology. I attended an open
house last fall and had the opportunity to sit in on two classes during
that visit. I felt extremely welcomed by both faculty and students.
The best way I can describe the culture at William James College is one of “family.” The
faculty at the school is supportive, readily available and genuinely
invested in the personal and professional development of each of its
students.

William James College is unique in that its students immediately
begin clinical training in their first year. My first-year practicum
was at The Latin American Health Institute, a community mental health
agency in Brockton, Massachusetts. Working with both English and
Spanish speaking clients, I was given the opportunity to do intakes,
assessments, treatment plans and individual therapy with adults. The
experience has been invaluable in my early development as a clinician.
Although I am not one hundred percent sure of my career path, I have
recently developed an interest in psychological assessment and hope to
have the opportunity to do more testing at my second-year practicum at a
school setting. At William James College, through a wide variety of coursework and the
opportunity to work with diverse populations in multiple clinical
settings, you will certainly find your niche.

A commitment to community service also is a big part
of William James College’s culture. In early August I was fortunate enough to have the
opportunity to travel to a part of western Massachusetts that was
seriously impacted by a devastating tornado. Along with other students,
I helped a family clear rubbish from the yard they had been planning on
using for their daughter’s wedding. It was probably one of the most
rewarding experiences of my life!

Your first year at William James College will be challenging,
exciting and at times overwhelming. The best advice I can offer is to
budget your time (and money!), stay organized and make sure you set
aside time to take care of yourself. Although you may feel that there’s
no time in the day for things like exercise and socializing, it’s
essential that you strike a balance. Best of luck! Feel free to
contact me with any questions you may have.